We've never been to Versailles. For those that have, is it to overwhelming to do on our own? I haven't looked but I'm guessing there may be a RS audio tour so that would be helpful.
I know Viator has a small group tour to Versailles but it's a little pricey. Are there other reputable tour groups that go there that I could check out? I have several guide books, I just wanted to hear some opinions. Thanks for your attention!
I do not believe a tour is necessary. If you get the museum pass, you only need to pass through the security line. If it is a day with the fountains operating, you will need to pay a supplement to enter the gardens. It is easy to get there on the RER train which is about 6.75 euro each way.
It can be crowded, getting an early start will help. The RS audio tour is very useful.
Could we purchase the fountain tour ahead of time or would we have to wait in line to do so there? We were planning in getting a 2 day museum pass.
Kathy, I agree with Sam 100%. No need to take a pricy tour. Very easy to do own your own. TC
Very easy to do on your own. About a 45 minute train ride from paris . Once you leave the train station about a 10 minute walk to the palace . My wife and I spent the day walking the gardens , then about 3pm went through the palace when it wasn't as busy . There is some nice cafes down the street ,then take the train back to paris later in the evening
No need for tour.. they are pricey and you don't get enough time there to enjoy the grounds properly.
Easy to do on your own.. really.
With the Museum pass you do get free general admission,, if you go on a fountain show day ( which I would avoid like plague having accidently done it once ) then you simply pay at the entrance at the back of the palace.. don't worry.. its not a long line ...
To go to Versailles you simply that the RER there.. its about 45 minutes and its the last stop ( so you wont "miss it") you get off train with a hundred other people all going to same place,, lol,, you walk about 5-10 minutes ( and there are signs pointing to Chateau) .
Arrive BEFORE it opens.. yes.. you skip the line for tickets.. but not for the Security entrance and the lines for that can be long too. We made the mistake of arriving at 10.30 am one day and waited at least 45 minutes in roasting sun just to go through security .
Cost for fountain show was 8 euros last year.
The chateau is overwhelming and crowded.. but once you get out spend some time and really see the grounds and outbuildings.. and Marie Antionettes Hamlet. You can walk.. lots of walking.. or pay for a little shuttle bus to take you to ends of grounds.. ( I always walk so can't remember cost)
Be sure to go into the gardens behind the Grand Trianon.. pretty flower garden ( most of the gardens are the more formal bushes etc) and best of all.. the view up the canal to the palace.. its pretty special.
You all have been very helpful. Thank you. We can do this :)
I agree...do it on your own. If you feel like you are missing out on information about the chateau, get the headphones for the audio tour.
kathy,
I used the RS Audio Tour for the Chateau, and found that it worked really well. When I arrived there, I was really happy that I didn't have to rent an Audioguide, as there was a huge queue. I wandered through the gardens on my own, and I'm not sure a guided tour is necessary there.
An efficient and inexpensive way to see the grounds of Versailles is to hire a golf buggy for an hour or two. The buggy stand is around the back near the fountains and if you arrive early you will not have to wait.
Yes, save your money, use the audio gudes andskip the the tour, but treat yourself to coffee and a sweet in the chateau tea room. I mean, how often can you dine at Versailles? I'll never forget my server who looked every bit a princess -- or ballet dancer.Tres elegant!
I visited Versailles in 2001. I was considering another visit, but I don't remember my first visit being particularly exciting, and I will be traveling alone. My itinerary is already jammed. Am I missing something that I should reconsider? Should I consider adding something to all the spots recommended? I don't have the Carnavalet Museum in my plan yet.
